Up to A-G’s Chambers whether to prosecute Suaram, says Zahid

(Bernama) – The government will leave it to the Attorney-General’s Chambers to decide whether to take legal action against Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) for harping on the purchase of Scorpene submarines.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said despite his explanation in Parliament and news conferences over the purchase, Suaram was undaunted in its campaign over alleged irregularities in the procurement of two French Scorpene submarines by the government. 

“I think they have to stop harping on this issue as I have clarified that the purchase adhered to the guidelines stipulated by the Finance Ministry. 

“It seems that they (Suaram) are playing a part in advancing a political agenda for other people. They should be more responsible and file reports based on facts,” he told reporters after a walkabout here today. 

A prominent French government prosecutor has denied reports circulating among some Malaysian online news portals of an ongoing trial in France, on allegations of corruption by a French company over the purchase of two French-made Scorpene submarines by Malaysia in 2002. 

Yves Charpenel said the media in Malaysia should be able to distinguish between rumours and facts, and between investigations and a trial. 

Suaram applied for a judicial review in the French courts in November 2009 over suspected commissions involved in the submarine purchase.